Director Ram Gopal Varma recently shared an unsettling fact about the filming of his acclaimed horror film, Bhoot. During a special screening at the Red Lorry Film Festival 2026 in Mumbai, Varma disclosed that the apartment where the film was predominantly shot has been unoccupied since its release in 2002. The flat, located in the Lokhandwala Complex, gained notoriety after the film’s debut, and despite numerous attempts by potential residents, no one has chosen to live there over the past two decades. Varma expressed that the building’s reputation has made it a less appealing option for occupants.

Choice of Residential Setting

Varma explained the choice to film in an apartment rather than a bungalow as a strategic decision aimed at enhancing the relatability of the horror elements to the audience. The film’s narrative, set in Mumbai, benefited from the unique atmosphere of a typical residential flat, making the supernatural occurrences feel more immediate and believable. Bhoot features a married couple whose seemingly normal lives are disrupted by a terrifying presence within their new home.

Quick Production Timeline

The filmmaker revealed that a significant portion of Bhoot was filmed in a single apartment over the course of just 30 days. This concentrated shooting schedule allowed for a swift production process as most scenes were contained within that one location. Varma highlighted that even after more than twenty years since its release, the apartment remains vacant, further cementing its unsettling reputation among locals.

Insights on Casting Choices

In addition to discussing the location and production, Varma elaborated on his decision to cast Urmila Matondkar in the lead role. He noted that an impactful close-up from the song “Hai Rama” in his earlier film, Rangeela, convinced him of her ability to portray the complex emotional range required in Bhoot. The film also featured a notable supporting cast, including actors such as Nana Patekar, Rekha, Fardeen Khan, and Tanuja. Following the film’s success, Varma directed a sequel titled Bhoot Returns in 2012, which starred Manisha Koirala.

Upcoming Projects

During his appearance at the festival, Varma also mentioned that he is set to begin production on Sarkar 4, the latest installment in the political crime franchise that first launched with Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role. This announcement adds to Varma’s extensive portfolio, which includes several notable horror films like Raat, Phoonk, and Phoonk 2, further establishing his status within the genre.

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